There is a huge stigma surrounding NYRs. Moreover, the idea that resolutions are bound to fail in and of itself makes resolutions harder to keep. The solution? Don’t make NYRs.

Instead, make Half-Year Resolutions. Around July (perhaps on July 4th?), make a single resolution. For one, you avoid the prejudice involved with NYRs. As an added bonus, you only have to maintain it for half a year.

Another strategy I’ve heard of is the New Month Resolution. It is commonly said that it takes 28 days to form a habit. Take advantage of this and resolve to do one new thing each month (e.g. each vegetarian, stop being sarcastic).